Double-blind evaluation of glucagon and propantheline bromide (pro-banthine) for hypotonic duodenography

The hypotonic effect of glucagon (2 mg) and propantheline bromide (Pro-Banthine, 30 mg) on the upper gastrointestinal tract was compared in a double-blind study in 12 healthy volunteers and 36 patients. The solvent solution for the two drugs was used as a placebo. Both drugs and placebo were administered intramuscularly. The time of onset of the hypotonic effect was similar for both drugs, with maximum effect achieved 10 min after injection. Effects of glucagon dissapeared rapidly after 30 min, while Pro-Banthine still retained 50% of its maximum effect 2 1/2 hr after injection. Side effects of Pro-banthine were related to the long duration of the hypotonic effect (4-6 hr). A significant placebo effect on the duodenal C loop was observed. Glucagon appears to be the drug of choice since its hypotonic and hypomotile effects on the gastrointestinal tract are comparable to propantheline bromide while having the advantage of shorter duration and practically no side effects.